T&E,
You can always wave a hand and say "doctor's orders" as if you don't want to discuss it. If you don't make a larger issue most (sane) people also won't. A certain look on your face that communicates that it's not up for general discussion also helps ;)
I would feel awkward saying that if it weren't true (perhaps I'm a better little-white-liar than I think I am). I have actually said, "hopefully temporary" after a polite "no thanks" didn't end the conversation, and people were asking what my diet story was. It was true that I was hopeful, and I really didn't know exactly what my intolerances were.
Ant and several others have a longer list of intolerances (and many of us are still working on figuring ours out). (Sorry to answer for you, Ant! I thought you might be sleeping at this hour in HK.)
I can see the dilemma of lunch - I often carry individual packets of plain almond butter (Justin's brand), which fit in purse or briefcase, and provide energy in a way that works for me. Those can be munched discreetly in the rest room, if you realize you're in a situation with limited food choices available. Potato chips are also good for me - not quite so discreet, but shareable.
Good luck,
Sara
Pepto and Imodium questions...
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